Decathlon Laiguangying Branch Closing Down

It seems that the COVID-19 pandemic is also bringing big brands down to their knees. A local source received a text message from the famous sporting goods retailer Decathlon, which indicated that their Laiguanying branch was closing down.

For years Decathalon has been the go-to place for Beijing’s parents when it came to sporting goods and apparel for the whole family. Browsing through the giant warehouse-like store lets parents get all their athletic goods in one convenient location and their competitive prices makes stocking up on the season without breaking the bank.

The text message roughly translates to “The second wave on Taobao is upon us, as our Laiguangying branch closes down! Nine days left! Thousands of products have now been added, all at reduced prices! Free coupons to shop at our Siyuanqiao and Longde branches also available upon making a purchase, we are eagerly waiting to welcome you!.”

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The “second wave on Taobao” presumably means that a new host of sales are now available when you shop for Decathlon apparel on Taobao. Decathlon has gone into discount overdrive off late. For the 6.18 shopping season, the sporting retailer has put up to 50% off on fitness equipment and clothing on Taobao.

Major discounts on athletic apparel

On their website, they are offering an end of season, inventory clearing discount of up to 80% off on goods.

The branch closure also raises an interesting proposition as to whether they’re closing down in-person stores and are instead expanding their online presence. Though the text message does mention that Decathlon will give customers free coupons to shop at their Siyuanqiao and Longde locations if they make purchases online. While the branch closure is to be lamented, Beijingers should be emboldened to buy their favorite sports apparel and gear from the store we know best.

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Photos: Decathlon Group, text message screenshot from Decathlon phone number, Taobao, romania-insider.com